A new laptop out of the box is not ready to use. It's loaded with trial software, promotional apps, weak security defaults, and missing essentials. Here's what to do before anything else.
1. Run all Windows updates
Settings → Windows Update → Check for updates. Let it download and install everything. Restart. Check again. Repeat until it says you're up to date. This can take 30–60 minutes but it patches security holes and fixes early bugs.
2. Remove the bloatware
New laptops come stuffed with software you didn't ask for — McAfee trials, manufacturer utilities, Candy Crush, promotional apps. Go to Settings → Apps → Installed apps and uninstall anything you don't recognise or want. Be aggressive — you can always reinstall something later.
3. Set up Windows Security
Windows Defender (built into Windows 11) is good enough for most people. Make sure it's turned on: Settings → Privacy & Security → Windows Security. You don't need to buy McAfee, Norton, or any other antivirus.
4. Create a Microsoft account (or switch to a local one)
Windows 11 pushes you toward a Microsoft account during setup. If you use Outlook or OneDrive, it makes sense. If you don't want your laptop tied to a Microsoft account, you can switch to a local account in Settings → Accounts.
5. Set up a backup
Before you put anything important on the machine, set up backups. The easiest option is a cloud backup service like Backblaze (£5/month, backs up everything automatically). Or plug in an external USB drive and set up File History in Settings.
6. Install a browser you actually want
Edge is fine, but if you prefer Chrome or Firefox, install it now and import your bookmarks and passwords from your old machine. Set it as your default browser in Settings → Apps → Default apps.
7. Set up your email
Open the Mail app or install Outlook. Add your email accounts so they're ready to go. If you use Gmail, you can access it through Chrome — but setting it up in a proper email app is better for notifications.
8. Transfer your files
If you have an old laptop, now's the time to transfer your documents, photos, music, and anything else you need. You can do this with an external drive, cloud storage, or a direct transfer cable.
9. Adjust power settings
Out of the box, most laptops are set to a balanced power mode. If you want better battery life: Settings → System → Power & battery → Power mode → Best power efficiency. If you want maximum performance (plugged in), choose Best performance.
10. Set up a PIN for login
Settings → Accounts → Sign-in options → PIN. It's faster than typing a password every time and works with Windows Hello facial recognition or fingerprint if your laptop has it.
Too much hassle?
We do new computer setup for £50. We handle all of the above plus file transfer from your old machine, email configuration, printer setup, and bloatware removal. You get it back ready to use. Based in Lewes, covering all of Sussex.